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Kenya staged a dramatic comeback to secure a 3-3 draw against Gambia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday.
The Harambee Stars fought back three times to earn a crucial point in their first match under new coach Benni McCarthy.
Gambia, under former Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry, took the lead through Yankuba Minten, with Musa Barrow netting twice.
Kenya responded through captain Michael Olunga’s penalty, second-half substitute Mohamed Bajaber’s long-range effort, and William Lenkupae’s last-minute goal.
The draw leaves Kenya fourth in Group F with six points from five matches, while Gambia remain fifth with four points.
Gabon lead with 12 points after defeating Seychelles 3-0, followed by Côte d’Ivoire (10), Burundi (7), and Seychelles (0).
Kenya started well, dominating possession, but Gambia capitalised on counterattacks. Barrow missed a first-half penalty before scoring twice in the second half.
Kenya’s fightback saw Olunga convert from the spot, Bajaber equalise, and Lenkupae secure the dramatic draw.
Kenya will now turn their focus to their next fixture against Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, hoping to build on this hard-fought result.
